Suresh Prabhu confident India will be a $20 trillion economy in 20 years

Kolkata - Union Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu on Friday said he was optimistic about the Indian economy growing to $20 trillion in size over the next 20 years.

Suresh Prabhu in a file photo. PTI

Addressing the ICAI regional meet here today, the minister said that Indian economy could become $20 trillion over the next 20 years.

"To reach one trillion (USD) GDP mark, it took India 20 years, but it added the next trillion in just six-seven years. Our economy can double in every six to six-and-a-half years," Prabhu said.

The minister said that with the inflation in check and a prevailing conducive environment, the economy was looking up and foreign direct investments were increasing.

"There is a tremendous respect among investors for the efforts of the Prime Minister who are eager to invest in India," Prabhu said.

Speaking about democracy, he said despite alternative views in a democracy, "we should pursue growth to eradicate poverty".

"In a democracy, alternatives should be discussed but, at the end, a final decision has to be arrived at," he said.

"We cannot be ambiguous about our goals. It is essential that concerted efforts are made and we have a comprehensive strategy to reach our goal, which is achieving inclusive growth coupled with elimination of poverty and corruption," the minister added.